Sumba: Into the Soul of Sumba, Cultural and Photographic Journey
18 – 24 February 2027
Whilst the exact dates for the Nyale festival and Pasola have not been announced, based on history and this year’s full moon falling on March 24th, I expect the event will happen at this time, and I will be taking a group there in March to experience this very unique event.
We will have a fascinating adventure together exploring the traditional villages, huge megalithic gravesites, and traditional architecture, visiting some stunning natural landscapes, attending the Pasola ritual, observing the riders dressed in their traditional, beautiful Ikat clothing handed down from their ancestors, getting ready for battle against the other clans.
The beautiful island of Sumba is distinguished by spectacular rituals, huge megalithic grave sights, unusual peaked houses and beautiful Ikat clothes. This island is one of the most culturally interesting places to visit in Indonesia , possibly in the world. Many of the Sumbanese still practice animist beliefs and perform ancient rituals which are fascinating to experience and photograph.
Sumba was never really colonised like many other parts of Indonesia so the old ways have been less impacted, so visiting Sumba is like going back in time to some extent. The island is easy to reach, just one hour from Bali, and we have a very exciting program planned in March. Over seven intense days you’ll stand shoulder-to-shoulder with high priests at ancient rituals, document master ikat weavers, and chase golden light across one of the wildest, most authentic islands left in Indonesia.
Far from tourist trails, you’ll be welcomed into non-touristic villages for dinners, storytelling with elders, and front-row access to centuries-old ceremonies. Designed by photographers for photographers – every transfer, sunrise, and village visit is planned to put you in the perfect spot with the perfect light. A once-in-a-lifetime chance to bring home dramatic, soul-stirring images of a culture that still lives its ancient beliefs.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS CULTURAL JOURNEY:
- Meet with the high priests and gain a greater understanding of Sumba culture and traditional beliefs
- Visit the villages producing Ikat, hand-woven textiles.
- Dinner in a traditional, non-tourist village with the community.
- Spectacular sunsets and cloud formations.
- Dancing trees of East Sumba.
- Many landscape and people photo opportunities.
- Meet with young activists who are providing education to children in the villages.
- Visit Weekuri’s turquoise springs.
SUMBA CULTURAL PHOTOGRAPHY JOURNEY DAY TO DAY PROGRAM
DAY 1 – FEBRUARY 18 | ARRIVE IN WEST SUMBA
Fly from Bali to Tambolaka, arriving at approximately 11:15 am. After lunch, visit a waterfall and two traditional villages. Overnight in West Sumba.
DAY 2 – FEBRUARY 19 | MARKETS AND SOUTHWEST SUMBA
Visit a traditional market before driving approximately two hours to the southwest of the island. After checking in, head to Baliloku traditional village for dinner with the local community. We will have time to meet the Rato (traditional priests), ask questions, and learn about local customs and rituals.
DAY 3 – FEBRUARY 20 | VILLAGE LIFE
Enjoy a relaxed start after the previous evening, then explore traditional villages and the backroads of the area. We will have lunch in a village and take part in a cooking class, learning about local food while spending time with village elders to hear about Sumbanese culture and history.
DAY 4 – FEBRUARY 21 | SOUTHWEST SUMBA AND PASOLA*
We hope to attend Pasola, Sumba’s traditional horseback ritual, during our time in the southwest. If it takes place while we are there, we will adjust the day’s programme to attend. Otherwise, we will spend the day exploring villages and meeting local communities, with plenty of opportunities for photography. Overnight in Southwest Sumba.
DAY 5 – FEBRUARY 22 | WEST SUMBA OR EAST SUMBA EXTENSION
After breakfast, guests finishing their journey in West Sumba will be transferred to Tambolaka Airport. Those continuing with us will drive to East Sumba, a journey of approximately four to five hours, stopping at villages and scenic viewpoints along the way. Overnight in East Sumba.
DAY 6 – FEBRUARY 23 | WEAVING VILLAGES AND DANCING TREES
Spend the day visiting weaving villages, meeting women who practise this remarkable art, and learning about the traditions behind their textiles. East Sumba has a very different character from the west and is well worth the extra time. We will also photograph Sumba’s famous dancing trees, either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, depending on the tides.
DAY 7 – FEBRUARY 24 | DEPARTURE
Fly back to Bali from Waingapu.
*The 2027 Pasola dates have not yet been announced, so attendance cannot be guaranteed. If an event falls during our stay in West Sumba, we will adjust the itinerary where possible to attend it.
For booking and more information, please contact David at +628111331255 or davidmetcalf312@gmail.com.
PRICING
Single | $2900 USD PP
Sharing Room | $2500 USD PP
Includes:
- All Local Transport (Comfortable Air Conditioned Van)
- All Meals
- All Accommodation
- Park Entrance Fees
- Local Guide
Excludes:
- Domestic Flights to and from Sumba
- Tips
- Alcohol
Please note deposits are not refundable unless the tour is cancelled by the operator.